Sibley renovations add to growth in Rochester's core

A transformation takes time, but that's what Rochester's city center has been in the midst of. And the results are beginning to take shape in ways that should placate critics and tempt potential businesses and developers.

This, alone, would be cause for optimism. But the Sibley Building project is far from alone downtown.

Across the street, the Windstream telecommunications company is settling some 300 workers into new space in the city's Midtown complex. Redevelopment of the site's 17-story Midtown Tower is also in the works.

This influx of retail, office and residential space in the heart of downtown will generate, first, jobs (the bus terminal alone is expected to create some 400 construction jobs; 50 permanent positions). City residents must be among those tapped to help fill them.

Gilbert Winn has vowed to make community and minority hiring a priority at Sibley. Mayoral candidates Lovely Warren and Alex White have made jobs for city residents a campaign focus, with Warren pledging to standardize Project Labor Agreements like the one in place for Midtown construction.

Good omens, all.

Beyond the construction phase, though, completed projects will make for a new and revitalized heart of the city. Hundreds, likely thousands will work and shop at the renovated facilities, with scores of residential units in the mix and the new bus depot a short walk away.

Momentum for these projects must continue. They in turn can provide new momentum for a resurgent Rochester.

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Results beginning to show in midtown

Sibley renovations will add to a growing Rochester core.

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